Eric Reid rumors: Bengals hosting him on visit
The Cincinnati Bengals are hosting free-agent safety Eric Reid on a visit, the first of the process for a 26-year-old Pro Bowler.
Most of the big-name, high-impact NFL free agents have already been signed to a team, but Eric Reid has suspiciously remained out on the market. Despite being one of the best young safeties in the game, the former LSU star has been without much interest, with some believing his kneeling during the national anthem last season and in 2016 being the main reason.
However, on Monday, the Cincinnati Bengals invited Reid to their complex for a visit, the first of his free agency period. Reid, 26, would be a nice fit on Cincinnati’s roster, playing as a hybrid safety/linebacker alongside George Iloka and Shawne Williams.
Sources: Free agent S Eric Reid, one several quality starters available at the position, is slated to visit the #Bengals. This is believed to be the first FA visit for the former #49ers first-rounder.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 9, 2018
Reid played the first five years of his career with the San Francisco 49ers and earned a Pro Bowl berth in 2013 as a rookie. Since, the youngster has developed into a fine player who can play a bevy of roles including strong safety, free safety and a roving linebacker.For his career, Reid has picked off 10 passes and notched 35 passes defensed. He’s still looking for his first touchdown.
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Perhaps the biggest concern about signing Reid to a long-term deal is his health, as he has missed nine games over the past two campaigns. If the Baton Rouge native can stay on the field, he’s one of the top 10 players at his position league-wide.
Hopefully Reid can sign on with a team — Bengals or otherwise. It would be a black eye for the NFL if another player involved in kneeling to raise awareness for racial injustices is kept on the sidelines despite his considerable;e skills.